HAMPDEN - Leadership at the East of the River Five Towns Chamber of Commerce welcomed hundreds on Thursday for a flavorful networking event.

ERC5 hosted its third annual Feast in the East at The Starting Gate at GreatHorse in Hampden as "a networking opportunity for our members, and to welcome folks from the public to come in and taste the area's top savory dishes and confectionery dishes,"Nancy Connor, the chamber's executive director, said.

A total of 30 food vendors were on hand with 12 drink vendors, some of whom served beverages including beer, wine, scotch and vodka. Those attending the event were able to taste a sample from each food establishment, and vote on the best savory and sweet dish, Connor said.

In addition to the networking opportunity, Connor said, the event -which is presented by sponsor Green Earth Energy- supports the chamber's scholarship fund. This year, the fund will give out two scholarships to seniors at Longmeadow High School, East Longmeadow High School, Ludlow High School, and Minnechaug Regional High School.

Check out photos from the event above, and for more information, visit the chamber's official website here.